Unilever has successfully concluded its extensive £40 million transformation of its largest UK food production facility in Burton, which now serves as the central hub for the company’s entire range of condiments. This strategic move is designed to enhance Unilever’s food business within the UK market, as a staggering 99% of the products crafted at the Burton site are distributed to retailers across the nation.
The £40 million investment by Unilever marks a significant overhaul, uniting all condiment production into one advanced specialised hub. This ambitious project not only seeks to cater to growing market demands but also to boost supply chain efficiency, bolster capability, and notably enhance production volumes. A notable aspect of this transformation is the expansion of the factory’s footprint by 50% to 31,000 sqm, with the addition of a second factory. This enables the co-production of well-known brands such as Hellmann’s along with Marmite, Bovril, and Colman’s.
Unilever has prioritised investment in digital capabilities to cultivate a ‘highly optimised’ production site, distributed across two factories and nine production lines. Over the past three years, these enhancements have resulted in a doubling of production volume and a 13% increase in overall factory efficiency. With the completion of a new production line dedicated to Hellmann’s, 2024 is anticipated to be a record year, with the site producing an impressive average of nine million jars and bottles monthly.
Andre Burger, leader of Unilever UK and Ireland’s food division, articulates the strategic importance of this development. He asserts that the investment solidifies Burton’s position as a vital food production hub, contributing to meals enjoyed across the country. By centralising production and advancing digitally, Unilever not only refines its supply chain but significantly augments the factory’s overall capacity.
In addition to increased output, Unilever’s transformation initiatives have significantly reduced the site’s environmental impact. Through the integration of real-time data analysis, food waste has been halved since 2021. Remaining waste materials are repurposed innovatively, including conversion into energy through an on-site biogas recycling plant and utilisation as animal feed for local farms.
Unilever’s £40 million investment in the Burton site is a landmark achievement, markedly enhancing production capabilities and environmental sustainability. This initiative underscores Unilever’s commitment to optimising its supply chain and augmenting its footprint within the UK food market.
